Abacus: Small Enough to Jail 2017
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Steve James, *Abacus: Small Enough to Jail (2017)* is a gripping documentary that uncovers a David vs. Goliath story set against the backdrop of America's financial collapse.
Director: Steve James
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Abacus: Small Enough to Jail (2017)* about?
This documentary chronicles the legal battle of the Sung family, owners of Abacus Federal Savings, who became the only U.S. bank criminally charged after the 2008 financial crisis. Over five years, they defend their innocence in a high-stakes trial that tests their legacy and community trust.
Who directed *Abacus: Small Enough to Jail*?
The film was directed by Steve James, known for his critically acclaimed documentaries like *Hoop Dreams* and *Life Itself*.
Who stars in *Abacus: Small Enough to Jail*?
The documentary prominently features Neil Barofsky, Ti-Hua Chang, Jiayang Fan, and Polly Greenberg as key figures in the Sung family's legal saga.
Is *Abacus: Small Enough to Jail (2017)* worth watching?
Absolutely. With an 88-minute runtime and a compelling real-life story, this documentary offers a fresh perspective on the 2008 financial crisis. It's both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, making it a must-watch for fans of investigative films.
How long is *Abacus: Small Enough to Jail*?
The documentary runs for 88 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Abacus: Small Enough to Jail (2017) — The Untold Story of Chinatown's Defiant Bank
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Steve James, *Abacus: Small Enough to Jail (2017)* is a gripping documentary that uncovers a David vs. Goliath story set against the backdrop of America's financial collapse. The film follows the Sung family, Chinese immigrants and owners of Abacus Federal Savings in New York's Chinatown, who become the unlikely target of a sweeping mortgage fraud investigation led by Manhattan's DA. Over five grueling years, the family fights to clear their name while defending their bank's reputation in a community where trust is everything. With intimate access and sharp legal drama, the documentary explores themes of justice, family loyalty, and the fragility of the American dream in a post-crisis world.
At its heart, *Abacus: Small Enough to Jail* is a David vs. Goliath tale, blending courtroom tension with emotional family dynamics. Steve James crafts a compelling narrative that questions systemic bias and the human cost of financial scandals. The film's atmosphere is tense yet hopeful, offering a rare glimpse into a legal battle that challenges the very notion of accountability in modern banking.